Shakhan & Wilkerson Divorce and Family Law Attorneys

Shakhan & Wilkerson Divorce and Family Law Attorneys Divorce | Child Custody | Criminal Defense | Family Law

Serving Metro Atlanta and Macon and Middle Georgia

Shakhan & Wilkerson Law provides legal services to Atlanta, GA area.

09/04/2026

⚖️ IS 50/50 CUSTODY REALLY REALISTIC?

A lot of parents walk into a custody case saying, “I want 50/50 custody.” But is an equal physical custody schedule actually realistic for your family?

The answer: it depends.

A 50/50 parenting arrangement can work well when parents live close to each other, communicate effectively, have compatible schedules, and can handle frequent exchanges without unnecessary conflict.

But in a highly contested custody case, 50/50 can create challenges. Work schedules, school transportation, distance between homes, extracurricular activities, childcare, and constant exchanges can turn an arrangement that sounds “fair” on paper into something difficult for the children—and the parents.

Georgia courts ultimately focus on the best interests of the child, not simply whether each parent receives exactly the same amount of parenting time.

🎥 Want the full breakdown? We recently posted a 30-minute YouTube video discussing 50/50 physical custody, the pros and cons, common scheduling problems, high-conflict situations, and what parents should consider before requesting it.

▶️ Watch the full video on our YouTube channel 7315

📞 Facing a custody dispute in Georgia? Don’t build your case around what sounds fair—build it around what you can show is best for your child.

Contact Shakhan & Wilkerson Law today to schedule a consultation and discuss retaining an attorney today.

⚠️ DISCLAIMER: This post and our videos are for general educational and informational purposes only and do not constitute legal advice or create an attorney-client relationship. Every custody case is different. Consult a licensed Georgia attorney regarding your specific circumstances.

08/31/2026

⚖️ UNCONTESTED DIVORCE: DO YOU REALLY NEED A LAWYER?

If you and your spouse agree on everything, an uncontested divorce may seem simple enough to handle without an attorney. And in some cases, it may be. But before you decide to go pro se, understand the pros AND the potential risks.

✅ WITHOUT AN ATTORNEY — THE PROS
• You may save money on attorney’s fees
• You maintain direct control over the process
• It may work for very simple divorces where there are few assets, no children, and complete agreement

⚠️ WITHOUT AN ATTORNEY — THE CONS
• You are responsible for preparing and filing the correct documents
• You may unknowingly give up important rights
• Poorly drafted settlement agreements or parenting plans can create problems later
• Retirement accounts, real estate, debts, child support, and custody issues can make an “uncontested” divorce more complicated than it appears
• The court generally expects self-represented parties to follow the same procedural rules

👨🏾‍⚖️ WITH AN ATTORNEY — THE PROS
An experienced family law attorney can help make sure your agreement is properly drafted, your rights are protected, potential problems are identified, and your divorce is handled correctly from the beginning.

💰 THE DOWNSIDE?
Hiring an attorney costs more upfront. But depending on what is at stake, paying for legal guidance now may help you avoid expensive disputes later.

An uncontested divorce doesn’t necessarily mean an uncomplicated divorce.

🎥 Want the full breakdown? Head over to our YouTube channel where we discuss the pros and cons of handling an uncontested divorce with and without an attorney.

📲 Considering divorce in Georgia? Contact Shakhan & Wilkerson Law today to schedule a consultation to retain an attorney.(478)-845-1213 or (404) 999-9529

⚠️ DISCLAIMER: This post is for general educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice or create an attorney-client relationship. Every case is different. Consult a licensed attorney regarding your specific circumstances.

08/29/2026

💰 DIVORCING IN GEORGIA? DON’T FORGET ABOUT THE RETIREMENT ACCOUNTS.

A divorce decree may say you’re entitled to a portion of your spouse’s retirement benefits—but that may not be enough to actually get the money.

That’s where a QDRO (Qualified Domestic Relations Order) may come in.

A QDRO is a specialized court order commonly used to divide certain employer-sponsored retirement plans, such as a 401(k) or pension, after divorce.

⚖️ Why is a QDRO so important?

Without a properly prepared and approved QDRO:

❌ You may have difficulty receiving the retirement benefits awarded to you.
❌ The retirement plan may not recognize your right to the funds.
❌ Mistakes or delays could create serious problems after the divorce is finalized.

Retirement accounts can be some of the largest assets in a marriage, especially in long-term or high-asset divorces. How those benefits are divided—and how the settlement documents are drafted—matters.

📺 Want to learn more about QDROs, retirement accounts, property division, and divorce in Georgia?

Visit our YouTube channel at ShakhanandWilkersonLaw 7315 for more Georgia divorce and family law videos designed to help you understand your rights before making major decisions.

📲 Considering divorce or already going through one? Contact Shakhan & Wilkerson Law to schedule a consultation to discuss retaining our office.

Don’t divide your future without understanding what may be at stake.

08/27/2026

🚨 HOW CAN PARENTS HELP KEEP THEIR KIDS OUT OF JUVENILE COURT?

Keeping your child out of the juvenile justice system often starts long before there’s an arrest, school suspension, or court date.

Parents: prevention starts at home. Here are a few things that can make a real difference:

✅ Know who your child is spending time with. Peer influence matters. Know their friends—and when possible, their friends’ parents.

✅ Pay attention to changes in behavior. Sudden changes in grades, attendance, attitude, sleep habits, or friend groups shouldn’t automatically be dismissed as “just being a teenager.”

✅ Set clear rules and enforce consequences. Children need boundaries. Be consistent about expectations involving school, curfews, social media, driving, and behavior outside the home.

✅ Stay involved with the school. Don’t wait until there’s a major disciplinary problem. Communicate with teachers, counselors, coaches, and administrators.

✅ Monitor social media and technology. Threats, fights, inappropriate pictures, bullying, and other online behavior can quickly become school disciplinary or legal matters.

✅ Get help early. Counseling, mentoring, tutoring, athletics, church/community programs, and other positive outlets can help address problems before they escalate.

⚖️ And if your child is accused of a crime, take it seriously. Juvenile court is different from adult criminal court, but the consequences can still significantly affect a young person and their family.

Early intervention can make a difference. Don’t wait until your child is standing in front of a judge to start addressing the warning signs.

📲 If your child is facing juvenile charges in Georgia, contact Shakhan & Wilkerson Law to discuss your options.

Protect their future. Know their rights. Get involved early.

08/26/2026

⚖️ IS REPRESENTING YOURSELF IN COURT REALLY IN YOUR BEST INTEREST?

You have the legal right to represent yourself pro se—but that doesn’t always mean you should.

Family law and criminal cases can involve complicated rules, strict deadlines, evidence requirements, courtroom procedures, and consequences that may follow you for years. The judge generally cannot become your lawyer simply because you don’t have one.

Before deciding to go it alone, ask yourself:

🔹 Do I understand the law that applies to my case?
🔹 Do I know what evidence I need—and how to get it admitted?
🔹 Can I properly draft and file motions, pleadings, and discovery?
🔹 Am I prepared to question witnesses and make legal arguments?
🔹 Do I understand what I could lose if I make a mistake?

In a divorce or custody case, the outcome could affect your children, finances, home, retirement, and property. In a criminal case, your freedom, record, employment, and future could be at stake.

💡 Saving money on attorney’s fees today can become expensive if mistakes have to be corrected later.

Before choosing to represent yourself, consider at least consulting with an experienced attorney so you understand your rights, risks, and options.

📲 Facing a family law or criminal matter in Georgia? Contact Shakhan & Wilkerson Law to schedule a consultation and determine the best strategy for your case.

Don’t just go to court. Go prepared.

08/26/2026

⚖️ WHAT YOU WEAR TO COURT MATTERS — BEFORE YOU SAY A SINGLE WORD.

You may have a strong case, good evidence, and a great attorney—but your appearance can still affect the first impression you make in the courtroom.

Court is not the place to experiment with your wardrobe. Dress like you understand the seriousness of why you’re there.

✅ WHAT TO WEAR:
• Business or business-casual clothing
• A suit, blazer, dress shirt, or conservative blouse
• Slacks, khakis, or an appropriate-length dress/skirt
• Clean, professional shoes
• Neutral colors and minimal accessories
• Neat, well-groomed hair and appearance

🚫 WHAT NOT TO WEAR:
• Pajamas, sweatpants, or overly casual clothing
• Tank tops or revealing outfits
• Clothing with offensive words, graphics, or slogans
• Hats or sunglasses inside the courtroom
• Extremely flashy jewelry or accessories
• Clothing promoting drugs, alcohol, violence, or illegal activity
• Anything you would wear to the gym, club, beach, or bed

Here’s the rule: If you’re wondering whether something is appropriate for court, there’s a good chance you should choose something else.

Judges and juries are human. They notice how you present yourself. Your clothing won’t win your case—but you don’t want it distracting from your credibility either.

📲 Have an upcoming divorce, custody, or criminal case in Georgia? Don’t walk into court unprepared. Contact Shakhan & Wilkerson Law to schedule a consultation and learn how we can help you prepare for what happens inside—and outside—the courtroom.

💾 SAVE this post before your next court date.
📤 SHARE it with someone who has court coming up.

08/22/2026

⚖️ BEFORE YOUR LEGAL CONSULTATION: COME PREPARED

A legal consultation isn’t just an opportunity to tell your story—it’s your chance to determine whether an attorney is the right person to help you move forward.

Before meeting with a lawyer, here are a few things every potential client should know:

✅ Know your goal. What are you hoping the attorney can accomplish for you?

📄 Bring important documents. Court papers, prior orders, contracts, police reports, relevant messages, and other key evidence can help the attorney better understand your situation.

🗓️ Prepare a timeline. Write down the important dates and events so you can explain what happened clearly and efficiently.

❓ Bring your questions. Ask about possible strategies, the legal process, fees, communication expectations, and potential outcomes.

💰 Be prepared to discuss costs. Understanding retainers, flat fees, hourly rates, and potential litigation expenses is an important part of deciding whether to hire an attorney.

🤝 Remember—the consultation goes both ways. The attorney is evaluating your case, but you should also be evaluating the attorney. Do you understand their approach? Are you comfortable communicating with them? Do you believe they are the right fit for your situation?

The better prepared you are, the more productive your consultation can be.

📲 Need a lawyer? Contact Shakhan & Wilkerson Law today to schedule a consultation and discuss your options.

🎥 And for a deeper discussion, watch our full 20-minute video on YouTube about how to maximize your legal consultation.

08/18/2026

⚖️ MEN: BEFORE YOU FILE FOR DIVORCE, KNOW THIS.

Filing for divorce can affect your children, finances, home, retirement, and future for years to come. Before you file, understand what may be at stake.

Here are a few things every man should consider before starting the divorce process:

👨‍👧‍👦 1. Don’t assume Mom automatically gets the children.
Custody decisions are based on the best interests of the child. If being an active father is important to you, start thinking seriously about custody, parenting time, and the parenting plan you want.

🏠 2. Think carefully before moving out.
Leaving the marital home may have practical consequences involving your children, finances, and property. Get legal advice before making a major move when possible.

💰 3. Know your financial situation.
Gather bank statements, tax returns, retirement statements, mortgage information, credit-card statements, business records, and information regarding significant assets and debts.

📱 4. Assume your texts and social media could become evidence.
Angry messages, threats, dating-app activity, social-media posts, and other communications may become relevant during litigation. Control your emotions and communicate carefully.

❤️ 5. Be cautious about dating during the divorce.
Starting another relationship before your divorce is final can create unnecessary legal, financial, and emotional complications.

📊 6. Understand that divorce is also a financial transaction.
Property division, debt, retirement accounts, child support, alimony, businesses, and real estate can all become major issues.

📁 7. Preserve evidence—don’t destroy it.
Save important communications and financial documents. Do not delete messages, hide assets, drain accounts, or attempt to manipulate the financial picture.

⚖️ 8. Have a strategy BEFORE you file.
One of the biggest mistakes you can make is filing first and figuring everything else out later. Understand your goals, potential risks, and options before the case begins.

08/17/2026

💔 Should You Date While Your Divorce Is Pending in Georgia?

Technically, you may be separated—but until your divorce is final, you are still legally married. And dating during a pending divorce can create complications you may not expect.

⚖️ Here’s why you should think carefully before dating:

🔥 Adultery may become an issue. A new romantic relationship could create additional disputes, particularly when alimony or marital misconduct is involved.

👨‍👩‍👧 Custody can get more complicated. The court’s focus is the best interests of the child. Introducing a new partner too quickly—or exposing children to inappropriate situations—could become an issue in a custody dispute.

💰 Your finances matter. Spending marital funds on a new romantic partner could potentially become relevant when property and finances are being addressed.

📱 Expect your relationship to become evidence. Text messages, photos, social media posts, travel records, financial transactions, and witness testimony may all become relevant during litigation.

😤 It can increase conflict. Even when dating isn’t the central legal issue, a new relationship can make negotiations, mediation, custody discussions, and settlement significantly more contentious.

The safest approach? Consider waiting until the divorce is finalized before beginning a new romantic relationship. If you are already dating, talk with your attorney about how to protect your case and avoid unnecessary problems.

📞 Going through a divorce in Georgia? Don’t make major decisions without understanding how they could affect your case. Contact Shakhan & Wilkerson Law today to schedule a consultation.

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07/30/2026

U***d Fathers: Don’t Guess. Know.

If you’re an unmarried father, establishing legal paternity is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your rights and your relationship with your child.

A DNA test can provide certainty, but legal paternity is about more than biology. It can impact:
• Custody and visitation rights
• Child support obligations
• Decision-making authority for your child
• Your child’s inheritance and other legal benefits

Whether you’re seeking to establish paternity or contest it, acting early can make a significant difference. Don’t rely on assumptions when your future and your child’s future are at stake.

📞 Need a lawyer? Give us a call at: 478-845-1213
404-999-9529

Schedule a consultation today to get started.

Address

1201 West Peachtree Street NW, Suite 2315
Atlanta, GA
30309

Opening Hours

Tuesday 8:30am - 6pm
Wednesday 8:30am - 6pm
Thursday 8:30am - 6pm
Friday 8:30am - 6pm
Saturday 10am - 12pm

Telephone

+14049999529

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